Mayapple, Mandrake

Mayapple, Mandrake Podophyllum peltatum Part to full shade, medium to moderately dry moisture level, prefers rich humusy soil, slightly acid to neutral pH.  12-18 inches height, blooms late spring to early summer, white flowers, spreads aggressively by rhizomes. Germination Code:  C(90) Native Region:  Statewide Flowers are showy but are usually hidden under the umbrella-like leaves.  Fruit is a large, fleshy yellow berry.  Plant’s long rhizomes can rapidly  spread into a large colony.  Goes dormant in summer.  Grows under deciduous trees, not under pines. flower;sun/shade;medium;loam flower;sun/shade;dry;loam flower;shade;medium;loam flower;shade;dry;loam

Photo Courtesy of John Hilty http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/ Photo Courtesy of John Hilty http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/